Stroll downtown Springfield and check out shops that carry everything from Lincoln souvenirs to one-of-a-kind jewelry and fresh-made fudge. Downtown is also host to many events and festivals throughout the year.

At the Illinois State Museum, permanent and changing exhibits tell the story of Illinois' land, life, people and art. "Changes: Dynamic Illinois Environments”, an interactive natural history exhibit, explores 500 million years of Illinois environments. The second floor galleries exhibit an impressive array of historical and contemporary Illinois art, and a family gallery, and the Play Museum for ages 3-10 can be discovered in the lower level. Experience an art project or science experiment every Saturday during “Satur-Play!” Self-guided tour. Open daily.